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Sister Helen Prejean presented on her NY Times bestselling book

THE ARCHIVES DEAD MAN WALKING

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FIND OUT WHAT RARE PIECES OF LITERATURE ARE KEPT IN

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Students display delicacies

Annual International Student Scholarship Dinner features cultural food, fashion and performances
PAUL DAUTERIVE Staff Reporter he International Student Scholarship Night was held Saturday in the TONK, complete with a buffet dinner and various performances from around the We have lots of support from the community, Erickson said. Tom Stringer, a sophomore nance major from New Zealand, was one of the emcees for the event. Stringer said the event featured different international performances by students and various international foods were served between performances. The featured performances were led by international students from Dominican Republic, Bangladesh, Nepal, Columbia, China, ArMeihan Gou, gentina and New Zealand. I led the Haka in a a sophomore performance at the end, theatre major, Stringer said. It was made participated in famous by a New Zealand the night in trarugby team called the Allditional Asian Blacks. Stringer said the Haka clothing. is a type of tribal wardance that is used to get pumped up and gain moral amongst the warriors. Summer Engel, a senior speech pathology major, said the International Scholarship Night is the best event held on Techs campus. It was so diverse and it brought all the cultures together for one evening, Engel said. The performances and the food complemented the cultures uniqueness.

Organizations set for Black History Month

PAUL HARRIS Staff Reporter The Tech history department and Phi Alpha Theta Honor Society have teamed up to sponsor two talks by Deborah Whaley, an associate professor of American and African American studies at the University of Iowa. Both talks are Thursday. The rst is at noon in University Hall Room 111 and the second one is at the Lincoln Parish Library at 6 p.m. Whaley will explore the way African Americans have been portrayed in television, comic books, graphic novels and anime, said David Anderson, an associate professor of history who organized the talks. Shes showing that we can look at popular culture and be able to analyze change in attitudes toward race, and toward gender in the United States, Anderson said. The same history of comic books, graphic novels and animation parallels to the real world history that African Americans endured. Anderson said Whaley talks will center around the 1970s and 1980s African American women in comics and graphic novels, particularly Storm from the XMen. For the noon event, Anderson suggested that those attending come early

world. Daniel Erickson, director of the International Student Ofce, said the dinner was rst held 15 years ago to raise money for scholarships for international students at Tech. We have had 15 straight sellouts, Erickson said. Erickson said the event was started in the early 2000s by the wife of a former faculty member, Anjum Sadiq that passed away from cancer. Now a scholarship in her name is given at To view multimedia the event every year. footage go to We dont send www.thetechtalk.org. out emails for people to come buy tickets, Erickson said. We send them out to remind them and warn them that we are about to run out. Erickson said many faculty members and students help the international student community throughout the year to make the event successful.

> see DINNERpage 6

WILL TRAHAN Staff Reporter The Institute for Micromanufacturing at Louisiana Tech has one of the biggest names in nanosystems and chemistry on its faculty, Yuri Lvov. Lvov has been awarded the prestigious Humboldt Prize for his pioneering research on two different fronts. The signicance of Yuris contributions to the eld of chemistry and nanoscience are matched only by the impact he has had on the academic and research reputation of Louisiana Tech, said Tech

Submitted photo

> see HISTORYpage 6

Professor wins national award for work in nanoscience and chemistry

President Les Guice in a press release.

Lvov currently works with his study in making nanotubes stronger by wrapping them in clay and making them more effective. Joshua Tully, a junior chemistry major, is one of Lvovs main student apprentices helping to perfect this nanotube delivery system. My goal is to make this already affective LVOV system even better in

functionality, Tully said. Lvov said that he is looking to train his students to carry on and perfect the research that he has started.

Lvov said before all of his groundbreaking work in the chemistry world, he started out as a professor in Russia. Lvov said in Russia professors get their Ph.D., then get their teaching degree and get a job anywhere to teach. Once the market crashed in Russia, all the funding for my lab disappeared completely, Lvov said.

> see LVOVpage 6

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Bestselling author comes to Tech

Debate team excels in Pan American Championship

PAUL DAUTERIVE Staff Reporter The Louisiana Tech debate team made their way to the international scene when they competed and advanced in an international bilingual competition at the University of Miami Jan. 24-26. The team advanced to the quarter nals in the Pan American Championships, making Techs debate team one of the top 16 teams from North and South America. I am very proud of these debaters, said Shane Puckett, a speech professor and director of the debate program. The last three years this debate team has taken off. Puckett said despite limited funding, the team has still managed to fare well against bigger schools with more resources. We are against teams with 50 member squads as opposed to our 12, Puckett said. The team has had to drive to most competitions, including one in Toronto, Canada. Puckett said other teams and coaches are impressed by Techs debaters because of their ability to persevere despite limited resources. Samuel Hathorn, a sophomore education major, said Techs debate team has recently been put on the map with success at a competition in India, as well as a second place nish at Purdue. It is a big deal to make it that far among so many teams in Miami, Hathorn said. Hathorn said Tech is hosting a debate tournament in March. We have great teams coming, like Vermont, which is huge on the debate circuit, he said. This brings our tournament legitimacy. Hannah Schilling, a senior journalism and political science major and Tech debate team president, said the team competes in the World University Debate Championship style. We are trying to bring this style of debate to the South, Schilling said. In the WUDC style of debate, there are four teams of two in the room. Each speaker gets seven minutes to speak, and at the end of the round, teams are given ranks; one being best, and four being worst. Schilling said this form of debate is used throughout the world at high levels of competition. The fact that we are going to major tournaments is huge, Schilling said. It is a big deal that we are competing on this level. Kelvin Spears, a senior studio art major, said competing in an international debate tournament was a great experience. We got to experience many different cultures at one time, Spears said. When you meet people from these places, it expands your views.

Photo by Devin Dronett

Sister Helen Prejean signs books for guests following her presentation on her book Dead Man Walking.

Sister Helen Prejean presented Tuesday on her experiences with the death penalty
IAN EDWARDS Staff Reporter Tech has hosted many famous gures over the years, and Tuesday night was no exception. Sister Helen Prejean, author of Dead Man Walking, The Death of Innocents and an essay in This I Believe II, spoke in Howard Auditorium on her close experience with the death penalty and her relationships with death row inmates. Prejean said the opportunity to write a letter to an inmate presented itself one day. I had a friend come to me and ask if I wanted to begin correspondence with a death row inmate, she said. I never dreamed he would write back, but as I learned, Jesus is sneaky. He did write back, and thats how I began exchanging letters with Patrick Sonnier, the titular man of Dead Man Walking. Linda Grifth, dean of student development, said this was not Techs rst attempt to bring Sister Helen to the campus. This is the third year in a row that our First Year Experience committee made This I Believe II the common read, Grifth said. We tried to bring her two years ago, but her schedule was too full. It was truly a blessing we were able to provide her a place to speak to the students tonight. Will Dearmon, coordinator of special programs and student affairs, said the night was a success. We had around 400 to 500 attendees tonight, consisting of both students and faculty, Dearmon said. It was great to see that outpouring of love, support and interest all across campus. Ranita Shows, a criminal justice student from Louisiana State University in Alexandria, said Prejeans words spoke to her. Sitting and waiting on death row seems like an unjust punishment for the mental aspect of it alone, Shows said. Sitting around everyday never knowing will they, wont they? is torture enough. And what about the innocents who have been imprisoned and killed on charges they did not commit? Prejean said she hopes students will use her words to take a rm stance on either side of the death penalty debate. I hope they will take away a stance on this important question that we all grapple with, she said. Of course, there is the empathy for the families who have had loved ones taken from them, but on the other hand, I hope the students will consider the implications that come with giving the state the power to decide who lives and dies.

Email comments to ije001@latech.edu.

Tech announces the Whos Who winners

WILL TRAHAN Staff Reporter The Student Government Association at Louisiana Tech has a contest for seniors called Whos Who. Jessica Johnson, a senior clinical kinesiology major and also the academic affairs chair for the SGA is responsible for putting it on this year. Whos Who highlights people around the school who are seniors, Johnson said. This contest is for students who have 100 hours of credit or more and who have been involved throughout their years at Tech. The student must be graduating that academic year. This is for the students who have kept the grades through the years and pretty much been involved in everything they could be, Johnson said. They have to go through an application process, then a panel of four judges goes through the applications and picks from there. I am honored and I feel like it is a privilege to be chosen for this, said Caroline Shaw, an elementary education major. Johnson said that the judges have a list of criteria that the participants have to meet and they choose based off that. I feel extremely blessed to be chosen. said Hillary Reeves, a senior elementary education major. My four years at Tech have been incredible and I leave with valuable experience and precious memories. The list of winners is: Hannah Schilling a journalism and political science major from Bossier City. Cappi Ker a biology major from Choudrant. Caroline Shaw an elementary education major from Haughton. Hilary Reeves an early childhood studies major from Hein. Kaleb Causey a political science and journalism major from Jonesboro. Rachel Baker a biomedical engineering major from Longview, Texas. Austin Vining a psychology and journalism major from Minden. Jeff Boudreaux an accounting and chemical engineering major from Prairieville. Elton Taylor a history major from Ruston. Jayde Hughes a pre-professional speech pathologist major from Sarepta. Molly Bowman a journalism major from Shreveport. Ephraim Fields an architectural studies major from Shreveport. Heath Garner a biology major from Shreveport. Hailey Molen a family and child studies major from Shreveport. Tyler Wagnon a pre-professional speech pathology major from Shreveport. Ashleigh McInnis a biology major from, Stonewall. Bryce Williams a secondary education major from Valentine. Allison East a history and journalism major from Vicksburg, Miss. Jullianne Tippen a biology major from West Monroe. Rebecca Switzer a nutritional and dietetics major from Woodworth.

Email comments to pdd010@latech.edu.

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World
W&NBRIEFS
WORLDNEWS
Syrian rebels launch airstrike bombing
BEIRUT (AP) One man raises a lifeless boy from the rubble; another clutches his bloodied head as he walks away from the chaotic aftermath of an airstrike by Syrian forces on a rebel-held area in the north. The bombing strikes a mosque that was being used as a school in Aleppo, killing at least eight people. Its the latest example of the heightened use of so-called barrel bombs, crude devices packed with fuel, explosives and scrap metal that are hurled from helicopters.

Nation

February 6, 2014 The T ech T alk 3

Wreck alerts coming soon

ASSOCIATED PRESS Your car might see a deadly crash coming even if you dont, the government says, indicating it will require automakers to equip new vehicles with technology that lets cars warn each other if theyre plunging toward peril. The action, still some years off, has game-changing potential to cut collisions, deaths and injuries, federal transportation ofcials said at a news conference on Monday. A radio signal would continually transmit a vehicles position, heading, speed and other information. Cars and light trucks would receive the same information back from other cars, and a vehicles computer would alert its driver to an impending collision. Alerts could be a ashing message, an audible warning, or a drivers seat that rumbles. Some systems might even automatically brake to avoid an accident if manufacturers choose to include that option. Your car would see when another car or truck equipped with the

OUR WORLD

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Acting Adminstrator David Friedman, center, spoke about their decision on vehicle-to-vehicle communication Monday.
same technology was about to run a red light, even if that vehicle was hidden around a corner. Your car would also know when a car several vehicles ahead in a line of trafc had made a sudden stop and alert you

AP PHOTO

Health care industry to see job loss soon

WASHINGTON (AP) Giving Republicans election-year fodder, congressional analysts say President Barack Obamas health care overhaul will lead to a net loss of some 2 million fulltime workers in America in the next few years. Thats because many people are expected to work less or not at all since they can get insurance outside the job.

even before you saw brake lights. The technology works up to about 300 yards. If communities choose to invest in the technology, roadways and trafc lights could start talking to

cars, too, sending warnings of trafc congestion or road hazards ahead in time for drivers to take a detour. The technology is separate from automated safety features using sensors and radar that are already being built into some high-end vehicles today and which are seen as the basis for future self-driving cars. But government and industry ofcials see the two technologies as compatible. If continuous conversations between cars make driving safer, then self-driving cars will become safer as well. The National Highway Trafc Safety Administration, which has been working with automakers on the technology for the past decade, estimates vehicle-to-vehicle communications could prevent up to 80 percent of accidents that dont involve drunken drivers or mechanical failure. Crashes involving a driver with a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher accounted for nearly a third of the 33,500 trafc fatalities in the U.S. in 2012, according to the safety agency.

Rwanda genocide case nally to trial

ASSOCIATED PRESS Through a ground-breaking trial, France is at last coming to terms with its much-criticized response to Rwandas genocide. Pascal Simbikangwa (Sim-BEE-kangh-wah), a Rwandan former intelligence chief, is to appear Tuesday in a Paris court for an expected seven-week trial to face charges of complicity in genocide and complicity in crimes against humanity. France is playing catch-up to a U.N. tribunal and other courts that have convicted dozens and shed light on the genocide nearly two decades ago. Activists hope the Paris trial will remind French leaders of their role and responsibility in Africa where French power is felt today in Mali and Central African Republic and mark the end of an era in which France provided a haven for those who committed atrocities abroad. In 2004, the European Court for Human Rights based in the eastern city of Strasbourg condemned France for taking too long to consider one womans legal effort over the Rwanda genocide. Finally! Bernard Kouchner, a humanitar-

STATENEWS
St. Marys inmates returned to jail
LAFAYETTE (AP) Two inmates who escaped the St. Mary Parish jail are back in custody. Lafayette Police, investigating a trespassing complaint, arrested 28-year-old Christopher Horton and 36-year-old Joshua Folks at 11 a.m. Tuesday. St. Mary Parish Sheriff s Ofce spokeswoman Traci Landry tells The Advocate the men surrendered without a ght.

ian aid activist in Rwanda at the time and later will no longer be a safe haven for Rwandan French foreign minister, said of the Simbikang- suspects of genocide, hopefully, after all these wa trial. years, said Clemence Bectarte, a lawyer with France played a bad role in this genocide. It the International Federation of Human Rights, didnt allow justice to do its job, and investigate one of several civil parties to the states case. correctly, or bring to justice those responsible Simbikangwa, who is disabled because of a who had ed to France, Kouchner said in a car accident in the 1980s and uses a wheelchair, telephone interview. was arrested in 2008 on Frances InThe case is steeped in historical dian Ocean island of Mayotte, where symbolism: In a country whose Nazi he had been living under an alias. He collaborationist regime in World War is accused of helping arm Hutu solII sent thousands of Jews to their diers who manned roadway checkdeaths, a Justice Ministry spokespoints in the capital, and instructing woman said it is the rst trial in them about their part in the slaughter. France on charges of genocide. If convicted, Simbikangwa, 54, It may be the rst of many such could face a life sentence. In teletrials, made possible under 1990s phone interviews, his lawyers said laws allowing near-universal jurisdicthey will argue for an acquittal, and tion for exceptional crimes. Another fear that the trial will be lopsided 27 cases linked to Rwandas genoin part because of the difculty in SIMBIKANGWA cide await in the Paris courts war nding anyone to speak in their clicrimes and crimes against humanity ents defense. unit, including one focusing on the widow of For many years, France prevented justice the Rwandan president, whose killing set off the from being done lets be clear blocked it genocide. for reasons of unease and bad memories of its The message of this trial is also that France behavior, Kouchner said.

Cruz to speak in Louisiana in May

NEW ORLEANS (AP) Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, a Tea Party favorite, is coming to New Orleans later this year. Cruz will speak in May at the Republican Leadership Conference, an event that draws major conservative GOP gures to the Crescent City each year. It will be Cruzs third appearance at the event since 2010.

Putin wants to keep Olympic games safe

ASSOCIATED PRESS President Vladimir Putin pointed Wednesday to the Boston Marathon bombings as a big reason for the intense security around the Winter Olympics that Russia is kicking off this week. The Chechen brothers accused of the 2013 Boston attacks hailed from just a few hundred miles (kilometers) away from the Olympic sites at Sochi. This Black Sea town and neighboring Caucasus Mountains are readying to host world leaders, thousands of athletes and many more spectators at the Feb. 7-23 games. Twin bombings in another southern Russian city in December have heightened terrorism fears around the Sochi events. Intelligence agencies from multiple countries will be working together around the clock at a special headquarters in Sochi, Putin said while visiting Olympic sites Wednesday. In the U.S., people died at a marathon, during the G-8 there were terrorist acts in the London subway, he said, according to Russian news agencies. Putin rose to power and popularity 15 years ago on law-and-order, hard-on-terrorism policies that critics say go too far and suppress human rights. He had long warned the West about the dangers posed by Chechen rebels, and urged closer security cooperation with Washington after the Boston Marathon attacks. Despite hang-ups and criticism and higher costs than any Olympics in history, Putin told athletes and staff Wednesday that Russia is ready to host the games.

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MINDEN (AP) A Minden-based manufacturer is expanding its precast concrete shelter business, creating 225 new direct jobs. Fibrebond Corp. President and CEO Todd Walker announced with Gov. Bobby Jindal that the company is making a $2.5 million capital investment to renovate a dormant container mill.

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ast summer, I met a man named Patrick. He was an extremely nice guy and kept to himself. He never bothered anyone and spent his free time playing games with his friends and doing what made him happy. Patrick is just a normal person. However, quite a large chunk of our society does not agree with that, simply because Patrick has Down syndrome. Down syndrome is a chromosome abnormality that affects one in every 691 people born, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Patrick does not care that he has Down syndrome, so why do you? I hear people belittle Patrick every single day, and they do not even know him. Thats retarded, and various

forms of that statement, are spoken, tweeted and put in Facebook statuses every single day. Seriously, go search Twitter for the word and see how many disgusting tweets come up. The advocacy against the use of the r-word came to the forefront after Ann Coulter sent a controversial tweet after a presidential debate in 2012. I highly approve of Romneys decision to be kind and gentle to the retard, she said. John Franklin Stephens, a Special Olympics athlete, wrote an open letter to Coulter shortly after the incident. After I saw your tweet, I realized you just wanted to belittle the president by linking him to people like me, he wrote. Well, Ms. Coulter, you, and society, need to learn that being compared to people like me should be considered a badge of honor. No one overcomes more than we do

and still loves life so much. Outrage grew toward Coulter, who refused to apologize, and towards people like Stephens who advocate against using the r-word. Why though? Amongst people who support the cause, like myself, it was a tremendous move by Stephens to bring this cause to the forefront of national conversation. Amongst supporters of Coulter, it was the thought police trying to take away their freedom of speech. You can call me the thought police or whatever you feel appropriate. Because of people like Patrick, I will stand up for basic human decency every time, no matter what you call me. Kaleb Causey is a senior political science and journalism major from Jonesboro who serves as editor-inchief for The Tech Talk. Email comments to ktc013@latech.edu.

Sorry just does not cut it

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Its her body

KELSY KERSHAW Futures Editor

EVERYONES ENTITLED TO THEIR OWN

pregnancy through intrauterine devices, the pill or the vaginal ring, to name a few. All of these methods are required to be covered by insurance without a co-pay. Cecile Richards, president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, said in the CNN article that access to this range of contraceptive methods has played an important role in reducing unintended pregnancy, which in turn has decreased the need for abortion. So, does that make birth control methods acceptable? My answer is yes. Allowing women the option to take a medication that can prevent unwanted pregnancy helps them avoid having to choose between abortion or a child. The same argument that was used for abortion can be used with birth control; it is her body, so she can choose to do what she wants with it. If she wants to take action to prevent pregnancy, she can. I think contraception is a great thing for women. Sure, one could argue that their responsibility should fall in their behaviors, therefore making birth control irrelevant, but it is the 21st century. Lets be real. At least now they can choose prevention instead of murder. Kelsy Kershaw is a journalism and merchandising and consumer studies major from Jennings who serves as Futures Editor for the Tech Talk. Email comments to kjk016@latech. edu.

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any in our nation knew when abortion was legalized that it was wrong, and now 41 years and over 56 million abortions later, we still know it is wrong. Since our conscience has not changed from the beginning, why have abortion rates suddenly started declining? Easy, contraceptives. According to an article by CNN, in 2011 the abortion rate was 16.9 abortions per every 1,000 women aged 15 to 44. That is the lowest the rate has been since the legalization of abortion in 1973. As abortion rates decline, effective contraception picks up. Women can now prevent

The Tech Talk welcomes letters to the editor. However, we reserve the right not to print anonymous letters. We also ask that each letter be accompanied by a telephone number, address, classification or title. We will not print the telephone number. Viewpoints should be mailed or brought to The Tech Talk office, 139 Keeny Hall, by 4 p.m. the Friday prior to a Thursday publication. Letters should be mailed to The Tech Talk, P.O. Box 10258, Ruston, LA 71272. Emails should be sent to techtalk@latech.edu. You can also submit letters online at www.thetechtalk.org/home/ lettertotheeditor/. Louisiana Tech University is committed to the principle of providing the opportunity for learning and development of all qualified citizens without regard to race, sex, religion, color, national origin, age, disability, marital status, or veteran status for admission to, participation in, or employment in the programs and activities which the University sponsors or operates. For Title IX information, see University Policy #1445 at http:// www.latech.edu/administration/ policies-and-procedures/1445. shtml.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

In defense of modern music

JOHN SADLER Features Editor

A NEW PERSPECTIVE

ete Seeger died last week. A folk singer who played with Woody Guthrie, raged at Bob Dylan when he went electric, and marched in the Occupy Wall Street protest, Seeger was a staple of musical and political life in America for over 70 years. While his support of political upheaval was sometimes a little too radical for mainstream America (including his later-retracted support of Joseph Stalin), he was a testament to the tumultuous relationship between music and politics. A relationship that is oftentimes overlooked. I have heard many people bemoan the state of todays music, claiming that it is vapid and without all substance.

While that is true in some instances, I challenge anyone who criticizes this generations music to name one decade that did not produce anything supercial. Most people will respond to criticisms of past decades music with something like, At least back then people listened to rock, and not this pop bullshit on the radio. Let me let you in on a little secret. The Beatles were pop (in fact, they were a boy band. Cue collective gasp from readers), The Rolling Stones were pop and Queen was pop. Where did this faux-intellectual hatred of all things pop come from? Are there modern pop songs that are supercial? Absolutely. There are also pop songs with an extraordinary depth to them. Take Macklemores Same

Love (I know, I know. Its been discussed to death). It is an excellent discussion about the justication of same-sex marriage. Take Kendrick Lamars entire good kid, m.A.A.d city album. Lamar crafted an excellent concept album about one kids reluctant participation in and subsequent attempt at escape from the negative inuences pervading the life of inner-city kids. The march for equality continues, and while the injustices are not as blatant and widespread as they were during the civil rights movement, they are still there, and music is still here with them. Pete Seeger would be proud. John Sadler is a sophomore journalism and English major from Extension who serves as features editor for The Tech Talk. Email comments to jts040@latech.edu.

s advances in social media increase along with societys ability to track everything a person in the public eye is doing, it has become more difcult for those with any notoriety to get away with anything. Whether it is a slip of a racial slur or a naked picture leaked on the Internet, it does not take long for the public to nd out about it and weigh in with opinions of rage or disapproval. This is where the offender takes center stage and delivers a heartfelt apology full of regret and remorse. Following the presidents State of the Union Address, Rep. Michael Grimm (RNY) was caught on camera threatening to throw a reporter off the ledge. Michael Scotto, a NY1 political reporter, asked Grimm about an ongoing investigation into the congressmans campaign nances. The Grimm stormed off then returned to threaten Sotto with physical violence believing the cameras were no longer rolling. After the video went viral, like clockwork, Grimm issued an apology for his actions, assuring viewers with a laugh that his Italian mother would not be happy with him. But are apologies like Grimms as heartfelt as we are expected to believe or scripts read from people who know how to work the public for their image? Unfortunately for Grimm, Scandals Olivia Pope was not by his side to help esh out the appropriate apology with a matching tie. His apology appeared to lack sincerity and his own light-heartedness by culturally stereotyping his mother did not help convince the public he was actually sorry for threatening to throw a reporter off of a balcony. Even if Grimm did offer to take Scotto out to lunch. An inux of celebrity blunders followed by a wave of regret have made headlines over the years, and society is left to wonder if they are really sorry or just sorry they got caught. People in the public eye are there for a reason. As a singer, actor, television personality or politician, their primary job is to stay in good public standing so their fans or supporters will continue to support them. As these people are normal people under extreme scrutiny, some people forget they are allowed to make mistakes too. We make the same mistakes but are not expected to publicly shame ourselves so why are they expected to do so? The apologies are seen by those people not as apologies, but as obligations to remain in good light. Most of them have publicists telling them the best way to convince the public they are did not mean whatever was said or done. This makes them not appear to be insincere, which only makes their image worse. Instead of trying to manipulate people with a public apology, they should show that they are remorseful. Actions do speak louder than words. As most of them are adults, they are expected to own up to their mistakes and if they are not sorry then let it be known. An insincere apology is easy to spot and an insult to the public eye. Many can tell when the person is lying to protect their image. In the end does the apology even matter? Are the lives of the strangers who make up the masses really that much better because someone apologized for something that is completely irrelevant to them? As long as there is the watchful eye of the public on celebrities and politicians, there will be mistakes and apologies that follow. Maybe a television network will turn it into an award show with a countdown of the best celebrity apologies. Justin Biebers pending apology to his 13-year-old fans following his court proceedings will certainly take home the gold.

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February 6, 2014 The T ech T alk 5

KarlaBono
CODY SEXTON Entertainment Editor The theater department has always said their primary goal with the performances they host are all in an effort to promote an interest in the arts. These efforts were not in vain. Thursday, Jan. 30, in Howard Auditorium, the Louisiana Tech Concert Association hosted singer-songwriter Karla Bonoff. Never heard of her? I weep for you. From the moment Bonoff opened with her song Home (recorded by Bonnie Raitt), she was captivating. Even some of the students who only went because their teacher told them to seemed entranced. The audience included members of the Tech faculty and residents of the university community who were longtime fans. The intimate gathering that did not ll the auditorium was referred to by Bonoff as small but mighty. Bonoff introduced the younger audience members to a collection of songs from her career which began in the 1970s to the delight of the older audience members who had been listening to her for years. As Bonoff would pick up the guitar and strum a few chords or take her place behind the piano and stroke the keys, the excited whispers of her fans in the audience were audible before they were drowned out by her melodic tones. Joining her on guitar was Nina Gerber, who complemented Bonoff s music style with her skillful playing. There is something to be said about the musician who stands the test of time in his or her career. Especially those who carry on even when writers block haunts them for a decade like a poltergeist. Bonoff cited singer-songwriter Jackson Browne as an inspiration of hers in the early years of her career. She and Browne would perform at the same California venue in their teens and said it was he who inspired her to write music before she covered Brownes song Something Fine. The songs were not recognizable to the younger crowd, but the music was still familiar. Like something playing in mom or dads car when they picked you up from soccer practice. The shows highlight was Baja Oklahoma, a song Bonoff wrote for a Willie Nelson lm that was never used. Bonoff s vocals during the songs chorus were phenomenal. Baja Oklahoma was a forgotten recording collecting dust in a pile of cassettes before she brought it back to life with little effort. A couple of Bonoff s notable works include Tell Me Why and All My Life recorded by Wynonna Judd and Linda Ron-

Famed singer-songwriter performs at Tech

stadt, respectively. All My Life was initially thought to be a jinxed song by Bonoff when she had no success with it. However, Ronstadt won a Grammy in 1991 for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal with the song. Bonoff ended the show with Someone to Lay Down Beside Me from her rst album and offered many thanks to the crowd for attending. The most unfortunate part about the show was the lack of appreciation that was evident in some of the students in attendance. They were in the presence of greatness and while they wallowed in it, I was basking. Karla Bonoff is a true artist and as I had the pleasure of telling her after the show, it was an honor to hear her perform live.

Email comments to cls068@latech.edu.

Coca-Colas Super Bowl commercial sparks a controversy

CODY SEXTON Entertainment Editor Id like to teach the world to sing in perfect harmony, sang the multiracial cast of the 1971 CocaCola commercial. Forty-three years later, there was singing, but little harmony followed in their Super Bowl ad. With the Super Bowl game being what some called an uneventful blowout, it was up to the highly anticipated commercials to keep people entertained. Little did the soft-drink company know, their one-minute long commercial titled Its Beautiful would spark the biggest racial controversy since Nina Davuluri became the rst Indian-American woman to win Miss America. The commercial showed Americans of different ethnicities, religions and sexual orientations enjoying typical American passtimes like camping, road trips and watching movies as America the Beautiful oated between English and other languages. Some praised the commercial for showing the countrys diversity. Rachel Minter, a freshman civil engineering major, said she liked the commercial. I think the way it showed different cultures was great, she said. I loved hearing the kids sing. Jacob Chambers, a freshman kinesiology major, said he saw no problem with the commercial. I thought the way it showed different cultures was great, Chambers said. The multilingual rendition of the patriotic song was so talked about it made people forget all about the second part to the once controversial Cheerios commercial with a biracial family. The singer of the Hindi portion of the song Sushmitha Suresh said the commercial was to show how similar everyone is. The message that were sending through this video is so beautiful, she said. That we are all the same. Many believed the song, which was sung in Spanish, Tagalog, Mandarin, Hindi, Hebrew, Keres, Senegalese-French and Arabic, was a break from tradition. Its a traditional American song, said Tim Schuler, a freshman marketing major. Its a tradition that should not be broken. Wesley Hodeaj said the song should not have been sung in anything other than English. It was multicultural and all, but its not traditional, Hodjea said. In a video produced by CocaCola, Natalie, the girl who sang the portion of the song in Hebrew, said the song was about all the

Photos courtesy of YouTube

Above: A still from the Coca-Cola commercial shows an American woman in a hijab. Right: The biracial family in the Cheerios commercial show the different types of families in America.
things good about America. Everybody, they want to come to America and be free and make friends and just be happy, she said.

E-mail comments to cls068@latech.edu.

Distractions
WEEKLYHOROSCOPE
www.horoscopes.com.net
Aries March 21 April 19 Today you may notice that youre feeling very creative and ambitious, Aries. You might want to use these strengths to work directly on an artistic project. Or you may choose to channel that energy into activities like organizing your home or workspace. If you plan it out, there should be plenty of time to get to both if you have a mind to. Make the most of the day! Taurus Apr 20 - May 20 Dont be surprised if you wake up feeling super today, Taurus. Chances are good that youll feel a renewed physical strength with energy to spare. That said, it might be a good day to tackle any projects that require you to use some muscle. Perhaps theres some yard work that needs to be done or furniture you want to move around. On the fun side, you might want to get to the gym for a workout or swim. Whatever the activity, today is a good day to go for it! Gemini May 21 - Jun 20 The effect from the planetary aspects will bring an end to any lethargy youve been feeling, Gemini. Its an excellent day to get up and head into the open to do something active. Walking, running, or going on a hike can make great use of both your energy and creativity. Fresh air and physical exertion will lend much to your health as well, so make the most of this. Even if you have to work today, you can always enjoy the evening. Cancer Jun 21 - Jul 22 Take charge of your overall health today, Cancer. Youll likely wake up feeling energetic and well. Seize this opportunity to be active in doing things that will help continue your good feelings. Consider all aspects of your health, including emotional and spiritual. If you can, sit outside in the sunshine and fresh air to consider the areas of your life that could use a workout. Take a walk, do some gardening, engage in something both creative and physical. Leo Jul 23 - Aug 22 Leo, reflection is not your favorite activity than you, the much prefer to be active. However, you must spend some time thinking in particular in the direction of a relationship. They believe little, towards the end of the month is exhausted, it would be a good idea to have more time to Sozialisieren to give. Virgo Aug 23 - Sep 22 Its the perfect day to get up and head outside, Virgo. Youll likely find yourself feeling positive and energetic, and some fresh air, sunshine, and physical activity may be long overdue. Even if this is a workday for you, make the most of your breaks and lunch hour by walking. This evening may be the opportune time to get together with some friends for coffee or a favorite sporting event. Libra Sep 23 - Oct 22 It wont be surprising if you find yourself getting frustrated with a close friend or partner today who is far less ambitious than you, Libra. The energy in the air can really emphasize your go, go, go way of reaching goals and achieving success. Others who are passive or fearful in this area may be difficult to understand. Yet each person has to do things in ways that are best for him or her. Try to be patient. Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21 See about using your good relationships with friends and loved ones today to get some group activities going, Scorpio. Chances are youll feel pretty good and the idea of socializing will appeal to you. See about inviting people over for supper or a game of cards. If youre especially lively, some sports may be just the ticket to get you out and moving. Do whatever it takes to have some fun and get some fresh air today. Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21 If youre lacking a regular exercise routine, Sagittarius, todays a great day to turn that around. Exercise doesnt have to wear you out or hurt. Even relaxing activities like walking or yoga are excellent ways to keep you in good shape. Participating in a sport that appeals to you like volleyball or bowling combines fun with exercise. Heck, even dancing is a recognized form of exercise! See about finding something that will work for you. Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19 Put your ambition into action today, Capricorn. The days planetary aspects should find you feeling energetic and positive. Make the most of this by taking steps toward your goals. As you know, if you dont actively pursue things, nothing will happen. The years can pass by so quickly and you wouldnt want to be sitting on a rocker wondering what if. Trust yourself and do what it takes. Everything starts with a single step. Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18 Dont hesitate when it comes to taking on a project or making plans today, Aquarius. Extra energy will complement your organizational skills, making the perfect combination to handle almost anything. Be sure to write down your goals and plans to help keep you focused. If you decide to tackle any cleaning today, get rid of the things you never use. Consider donating such items to charity, since theres undoubtedly someone out there who could use them. Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20 Today should go well for you, Pisces. Expect to feel a renewed energy and perspective on things, especially those that are work related. Make the most of this by working toward finishing projects that are waiting for you or by cleaning and organizing your desk or broom closet. Feel confident that youll be able to handle most any task in no time. When everything you wanted to get done is taken care of, make some plans for a little recreation. You deserve it.

6 The T ech T alk February 6, 2014

CROSSWORDPUZZLE
Across 1. Large wave caused by tidal flow 6. Small drink 10. Per ___ 14. Bobbin 15. Bit 16. Other name for taro 17. Actress Berger 18. Model Macpherson 19. Gen. Robert ___ 20. Church instruments 22. Convenience 24. Tic ___ Dough 26. Emphasis 27. Hell 31. Eccentric 32. 4th letter of the Greek alphabet 33. Brainy org. 36. Inexperienced 39. Female sheep 40. Ditto 41. Starchy food grain 42. Chowed down 43. Artists support 44. ___ Carta 45. Round Table title 46. Part of a gun 48. Polish seaport 51. Dawn goddess 52. Extremely hot 54. Aden native 59. Sitarist Shankar 60. Calculus calculation 62. Lover of Juliet 63. Islamic call to prayer 64. Alley 65. Light unit 66. Like some fir trees 67. Former Fords 68. A long time Down 1. Canadian gas brand 2. Impersonator 3. Chime 4. Roster used to assign duties 5. Hyundai model 6. Conk out 7. Portrayal by an actor 8. World book 9. Majestically, musically 10. Considered 11. Runs without moving 12. Perfect places 13. Champagne name 21. ___ Quentin 23. Mother of the Valkyries 25. Shows up 27. The very ___! 28. Salamander 29. Hightail it 30. Aliens, for short 34. Hot time in Paris 35. Nick of Lorenzos Oil 36. Diana of The Avengers 37. Teen spots? 38. Don 40. Sheriff 41. Old cloth 43. Mozarts ___ kleine Nachtmusik 44. Stingy 45. Glossy 47. Siegfrieds partner 48. Muslim soldier 49. Parlor piece 50. Thai breed of cat

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52. Enclose 53. Look after 55. Pout 56. Anarchist Goldman 57. ___-do-well 58. Charged particles 61. DDE opponent

LASTISSUESSOLUTION

DAILY U

Have any ideas for future comics or feedback? Email dwyer@latech.edu

WEEKLYWEATHER
TODAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY

www.accuweather.com
TUESDAY WEDNESDAY

SUDOKUPUZZLE
Difficulty EASY Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 grid contains the digits 1 through 9.
Sudoku Puzzle - Easy

www.sudoku-puzzles.net LASTISSUESSOLUTION
Sudoku Solution - Easy

HIGH 40 LOW 20

HIGH 45 LOW 28

HIGH 52 LOW 32

HIGH 50 LOW 28

HIGH 51 LOW 34

HIGH 42 LOW 33

HIGH 45 LOW 27

www.sudoku-puzzles.net

www.sudoku-puzzles.net

>

DINNERfrom pg. 1

>

HISTORYfrom pg. 1

Engel said she knows many of the international students at Tech, and they did a great job with the work they put into the scholarship night. The Haka was denitely the best performance, Engel said. It was surprising and unexpected but it ended the event well. Daniel Hale, a sophomore psychology major, said he went to support his international friends and to see other cultures displayed through their songs and dances. I like the whole environment, it is a really cool place, said Hale. It is very different from the way we do things in America.

Email comments to pdd010@latech.edu.

because only 70 seats are available. Call 318.257.2872 or email history@latech.edu for additional information. The Black Student Union also hosted three black history events this week, president Ryan Willis said. On Monday evening, BSU conducted the Professional Wear Forum at Davidson Hall. This workshop informed students on the dos and donts of dress working for a Fortune 500 company. The group also held a Meet and Greet in the Student Center to give students an opportunity to interact with the organization and eat traditional African American dishes. Tonight at 7 p.m. in the Tonk, BSU will host a Know Your History event where members of black campus groups will give the history of their organization. Black History Month got

its start in 1926 when historian Carter G. Woodson organized what was then Black History Week. Woodson, known as the Father of Black History, argued that American History was incomplete, citing the scarcity of information on the accomplishments of blacks. As a result, in 1915, he founded the Association for the Negro Life and History, now called the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). According to the Association for the Study of African American Life and Historys website, ASALH created research and publication outlets for black scholars with the establishment of the Journal of Negro History (1916) and the Negro History Bulletin (1937). In 1926, Woodson initiated the celebration of Negro History Week, which corresponds with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln.

Those two men in particular are arguably the two most inuential men in terms of creating freedom for African Americans, said Elaine Thompson, an assistant professor of history said. Those two men set in motion freedom for 4 million slaves so its an appropriate time to commemorate African American history. The week became Black History Month in 1976, Anderson said. Nowadays black history is a ourishing eld of American history, Anderson said. Black History Month has played a large part in promoting all facets of African American history, the month now serves as a potent reminder as to what we have gained and what we would have lost if we wouldnt have opened up this eld of study.

>

LVOVfrom pg. 1
More Puzzles: www.sudoku-puzzles.net

Email comments to phh007@latech.edu.

Lvov was then invited to go work in Germany and participate in a new study in self-assembly. He said his pioneering work in making an electrostatic layer-by-layer nanoassembly, where positive and negative composites are stacked. changed scientists method of doing it Lvov said. My team and I were the rst ones to try this method and now it is being done all over the world, Lvov said. Lvov said he was then invited to work in Japan, and met a U.S. professor and was invited to come to America to continue his research. In 1996, I came to the U.S. and worked in the naval laboratory for two years in Washing-

ton, Lvov said. Lvov said he then got three offers to teach in nanosystems by Texas Tech, University of New Orleans and Louisiana Tech. Lvov said he accepted the job at Louisiana Tech because of the salary and because he really liked the town of Ruston and the area of the state. He started at Tech in 1999 and has been here ever since. When I started here, I was much more well known around the world than I was here in Louisiana, Lvov said. Lvov said in one way it helped him because he could get his work done, but it hurt him because local politics got in the way of funding.
More Puzzles: www.sudoku-puzzles.net

Email comments to bwt008@latech.edu.

More Talk

February 6, 2014 The T ech T alk 7

Pieces of History
A look inside the literary collection of the Louisiana Tech library

Left: The biography of Queen Elizabeth I is the crown jewel of the archives. Below: Peggy Carter is the head of special collections at Tech.

IAN EDWARDS Staff Reporter nglish majors at other universities who want to read an original Charles Dickens letter would have to spend time and money to travel hundreds or thousands of miles to nd an exhibit. All Tech students have to do is make a simple trip to the fourth oor of Wyly Tower to visit Prescott Librarys Special Collections Manuscript Archives. I have been told the collection is the envy of many universities in the South, said Rick Simmons, an English professor. I tell all my English students, why not spend a few minutes and walk up to the fourth oor of the library? Most of you will never have an opportunity like this again. Peggy Carter, head of special collections, said the collection consists of some of the most celebrated American and British authors and poets. Carter said since 2009, the Tech Archives has been building a collection of literary history with the Frellsen Fletcher Smith Collection. We have an original, unpublished letter from Charles Dickens that places him in Boston at the time of writing, Carter said. We also have original documents belonging to Carl Sandburg, Alfred, Lord Tennyson, Mark Twain and fourth president James Madison, as well as King Louis XVI of France. Carter said the archives has one manuscript they consider to be the centerpiece. We have a biography of Queen Elizabeth I written by William Camden, she said. We have the original book in both English and Latin. Without these books, our collection is already notable, but these put us instantly on top. Carter said the pieces are worth quite a large sum of money. Imagine, having in your possession the signatures of prominent literary leaders, presidents and kings, Carter said. That prospect in itself makes these documents worth an untold amount of money. While we havent had any trouble, just like any museum, the appropriate anti-theft measures have been taken. Simmons, who is also the director of the honors program, said the acquisition of the documents was a fortunate privilege for the university. The archives were lent the documents by Lorna Kardatkze and her husband Jon who own a museum in Wichita, Kansas, Simmons said. Lornas father was Frellsen Fletcher Smith, who taught technical writing here at Tech from 1938 to 1972. A colleague, Dr. Pat Garrett, is a friend of the Kardatkzes, and through their correspondence, Tech received the rst few manuscripts. Simmons said his role was to trans-

Photos by Derek J. Amaya

The archives have selections from many famous authors and political figures from throughout history. late the content of the documents. I became involved with the project through the promise of being able to get closer to original works by 19th century British writers, which is my area of expertise, Simmons said. I made the collections website in cooperation with Peggy Carter and Tanya Arant (who works as a library specialist), and Ive stayed on to trace the origins of any new material the archives may receive. Simmons said the collection has earned Tech much prestige in the literary community. The draft of the William Wordsworth poem is a variation not known to exist anywhere else in the world, he said. We were also asked for permission to reference several of the Dickens letters in a volume to supplement the original pilgrim editions of his correspondence. This was monumental.

One of the archives documents is a handwritten letter from famed Victorian era novelist Charles Dickens. Carter said she is thrilled to be able to oversee the collection, and she is looking forward to future acquisitions. Thanks to people like Frellsen Fletcher Smith, who had such an evident love for Tech, this collection is possible, she said. This is what I want to be showcased, the spirit of our alumni and our early professors so people can see who built the university as it is today.

Email comments to ije001@latech.edu.

Sports Talk Alum gives for better Tech

CHAD MERRITT Sports Editor This is the last of a series about the donors who help fund Tech athletics. Standing up and cheering on the Bulldogs while surrounded by the enthusiastic screams of many other fans around can describe many spectators who attend Techs athletic events. For Ray Weaver, this passion continues to bring him back to Tech year after year to continue cheering on the Bulldogs. Weaver, a 1977 geology graduate, continues to support Tech in the same unwavering manner he did while he was a student. I was fortunate to go to Tech at a time when we were great at every sport, Weaver said. Being a diehard Saints fan, Im a diehard behind everything I support, which denitely includes Tech. Born in Metairie, Weaver moved to Ruston to attend Tech after a year at the Air Force Academy. He said he loved Ruston and Tech, even at a time when there was not much to do. Ruston was not as fun when I was in school as it is now, Weaver said. But theres no better way to attendance for football show love for the university games, Weaver said that one loves than by donating. students need to attend Getting other people to more games at the Thomas love what you love is great, Assembly Center to supWeaver said. Donating is a port the basketball teams. great way to share your exBack at Memorial Gym, periences with others. we would rock and roll, No matter the amount, Weaver said. It was excitWeaver said any donation ing and I hope we bring it is important for Tech. back up. Basketball is the Theres no prob- sport with the best bang for lem with giving $5, $25 the buck. or $100, Weaver said. Even if you cannot be a Whether its $5 from a lot donor, Weaver said that inof people volvement or $500 and particifrom one, D Y N A M I C pation is a every dolgreat way lar helps. to support Getting Tech. the quar W e terly updates on how Tech need students and fans is improving and develop- to get into our basketball ing is just one reason why teams, Weaver said. Get Weaver appreciates being in there and start jumping a donor. up and down even if youre Watching the nano- the only one doing so on technology program grow your row. and have success, and Weaver said that whethknowing you are a small er you donate to athletics part to this big project, is a or academics the money is good thing, Weaver said. going to a good program. Weaver also said he apI love this university, preciates that the athletic Weaver said. I believe in department works to give what they are doing here, extra sporting event tickets and the good people who to local kids and families, are here. Its just a great again making him proud of place to be. his school. Appreciative that Tech Email comments to has seen a rise in student cam059@latech.edu.

8 The T ech T alk February 6, 2014

FROMTHESPORTS DESK
with Chad Merritt

What one game can do

DONORS

Ray and Kim Weaver traveled to Dallas in 2013 to watch the Bulldogs play Army in the inaugural Heart of Dallas Classic. you make friends and make your own fun. Weaver met his wife Kim while both were in school at Tech. Both are donors, Tech fans and members of the Louisiana Tech Athletics Club. Being a donor for more than 30 years, he said

Submitted photo

NATIONAL SIGNING DAY

The Bulldog football program signed 17 players to the team Wednesday.
DELDRICK CANTY Defensive End Baton Rouge, La. SHANE CARPENTER Offensive Lineman Walker, La. SECDRICK COOPER Safety Marrero, La. JARRED CRAFT Running Back Haughton, La. RUSSELL FARRIS Athlete Ventress, La. JAYLON FERGUSON Defensive End St. Francisville, La. MARCUS GAINES Athlete Covington, La. SOLOMON HUNTER Linebacker San Antonio, Texas BRODRICK JEFFERSON Wide Receiver Bossier City, La. CEDRIC JOHNSON Defensive Tackle Rowlett, Texas DEONTE MCCRADY Offensive Lineman Arlington, Texas KAMERON MCKNIGHT Wide Receiver Ethel, La. QUANTA MOORE Linebacker New Orleans, La. MICHAEL RODRIGUEZ Offensive Line La Porte, Texas MARLON WATTS Wide Receiver New Orleans, La. PRICE WILSON Quarterback Marietta, Ga.

Techsters reect on season

PAUL HARRIS Staff Reporter In the 20 games this season, the Lady Techsters basketball team has not been satisfied with their win-loss column thus far. The team has posted a 7-13 record overall and a 2-5 record in their new Conference USA. Thus far it hurts to see the result of our season but as a unit we will not give up, junior forward Whitney Frazier said. You can see everyone in practice is fed up with falling short so we go out every day with the mindset to get better. Head coach Teresa Weatherspoon said turnovers have plagued the Techsters throughout the season so far. Its very important that we cut down on turning the ball over, Weatherspoon said. That has probably been our biggest negative this season. Weatherspoon said the turnovers have not been overlooked. She said all of them are analyzed on lm. When watching lm, we look at the rst three steps after a turnover, are we watching or are those three steps sprinting to get back to stop that transition, Weatherspoon said. We dont want to see a double negative. If we turn it over, we want to sprint back to be in position to get the ball back and score. Regardless of the negatives, there have been some positive ashes on the court this year. Frazier, who has been starting since she was a freshman, leads the team in multiple categories. This displays the progress and maturation she has endured as a player at the collegiate level, Weatherspoon said. Shes

Photo courtesy of the Ruston Daily Leader

Whitney Fraziers double-double helped lead the Lady Techsters to a 71-50 win over Texas-San Antonio last Saturday. playing so well because she puts in the extra time, she constantly wants to get better. Frazier currently leads the Lady Techsters in points per game (15.3), eld goal percentage (.471 percent), free throw percentage (.776 percent) and rebounds per game (9.7). The Lady Techsters are currently second to last in the Conference USA race ahead of Marshall University. There are eight conference games remaining in the season. The conference tournament begins March 11, in El Paso, Texas. Its been frustrating for our kids, but they arent only talking about being better, theyre showing it as well, Weatherspoon said. None of us are giving up, we believe in ourselves and we are going to stay in that frame of mind. We have to continue to do all the little things to give ourselves a chance to win.

ALEX WOODALL Quarterback Summit, Miss.

he Seattle Seahawks decimated the Denver Broncos in a matchup of the NFLs number one defense (Seattle) and offense (Denver). In the process of claiming their rst Lombardi Trophy, the Seahawks also proved true the adage that defense wins championships. One of the largest storylines following Super Bowl XLVIII is the impact it has on Peyton Mannings legacy. Pundits and fans alike have stated that Manning has now become a choke artist or someone who cannot perform when it matters. I have seen some people even ask why he won the league MVP honor. The thought that one, albeit terrible, game mars your legacy permanently is preposterous. Jim Kelly, Dan Marino and Fran Tarkenton are a combined 0-8 in Super Bowls. Roger Staubach went 2-2 and John Elway went 2-3 in Super Bowls. Tom Brady has lost his last two Super Bowls, just like Manning. Not only does Manning have one ring, at least he made it to the big game for a third time. Warren Moon is among the great quarterbacks who never even made it to the Super Bowl. It seems that Manning is criticized much more than these other legendary quarterbacks after losing a game. Manning broke the single season record for touchdowns and yards this year while leading the most prolic offense in NFL history, scoring the most points and touchdowns ever for a team in one season. Manning is four days removed from the greatest season for a quarterback in NFL history, and people are questioning his legacy. Statistically speaking, three of the ve greatest quarterbacks of all time, Drew Brees, Brady and Manning, are still playing today, and the all-time leader in passing statistics, Brett Favre, just retired. The fact of the matter is that we love to have a scapegoat. We need to nd someone to blame whenever something doesnt go the way we intended. Had Manning won hed be the greatest ever, and Richard Sherman would be the goat. Legacy is a strong word. It cannot be dened in one moment. People need to take a step back and avoid the knee-jerk reactions we have become all too accustomed to making following a huge game or moment. Peyton Manning is the greatest quarterback of all time.

Email comments to phh007@latech.edu.

Chad Merritt is a senior journalism major from Livingston. Email comments to cam059@ latech.edu.